§ Mr. THOMASasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that discontent among our soldiers in France at the absence of leave is still very rife, especially in the Sherwood Foresters; and whether his recent communication with the Commander-in-Chief on this question is likely to result in facilities being granted for a periodical leave of absence for all soldiers serving with the Expeditionary Force?
§ Mr. TENNANTMy hon. Friend can hardly expect me to be aware of what may or may not be thought on the question of leave in particular units such as the Sherwood Foresters. I am not aware that there is any general discontent such as the question indicates, though, no doubt, there is a general interest in the matter. It must be obvious that it is impossible to grant regular periodical leave of absence to all soldiers, and I can only repeat what I have said previously, namely, that the Commander-in-Chief is fully aware of all the aspects of this question to a far greater extent than anyone in this House can be, and that all possible leave which the military exigencies at the moment and administrative conditions permit is being given.